centurion

Roman military officer

A centurion was an officer in the ancient Roman army commanding a century—nominally one hundred soldiers, though in practice often fewer.

The rank was roughly equivalent to a modern captain or senior sergeant.

Centurions formed the backbone of Roman military discipline and appear frequently in historical accounts and biblical narratives: The centurion said to Jesus, "Lord, I am not worthy".

The word now evokes Roman military imagery in historical fiction, games, and metaphorical use for authoritative leadership.

Roman

legion

Great number, or soldiers

pilum · Colosseum · Caesar · empire · Rome · toga · Latin · aqueduct · chariot · forum

command

leadership

Ability to direct others

subordinates · cohort · legion · rank · insignia · promotion · veterans · legionaries · battlefield · tactics

military

infantry

Ground combat troops

  • tacticsMethods to achieve goals
  • maneuverDeliberate tactical movement
  • siegeEncirclement forcing surrender

phalanx · formation · campaign · fortification · garrison · sentry · veteran · barracks · drill · engagement

Easter

crucifixion

Execution by cross

conversion · confession · spear · Golgotha · piercing · soldier · witness · recognition · divinity · Gospel

valor

bravery

Boldness before danger

fortitude · boldness · prowess · decorations · torques · honors · distinguished · fearless · stalwart · resolute

Categories
Opposites
military rank hierarchy

centurionlegionary

Roman military serviceman

general · imperator · legate · commander-in-chief · private

command vs. subordination

centurionlegionary

Roman military serviceman

miles · foot soldier · private · enlisted man · rank and file

military vs. civilian status

centurioncivilian

Non-military person

citizen · plebeian · merchant · farmer · non-combatant

Phrases
Family

centuries, centurions

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G